Democratic Engagement

A society that enjoys a high degree of democratic engagement is one where citizens participate in political activities, express political views, and foster political knowledge. It is where governments build relationships, trust, shared responsibility, and participation opportunities with citizens. It is where citizens, governments, and civil society uphold democratic values at local, provincial, and national levels. A healthy democracy needs citizens who feel their votes count, are informed, participate, debate, and advocate. It requires governments at all levels to be transparent, inclusive, consultative, and trustworthy. In essence, political leadership, citizen participation, and communication demonstrate the level of democratic engagement.